I watched the finals of Rivermaya Bagong Liwanag last Sunday, October 28 on Studio 23 and saw the three judges — along with the band members picked Jayson Fernandez as the new frontman of Rivermaya. Though I’m not exactly sure if Jayson can successfully bring the band into a new level, I’m pleased that the judges chose him over the other finalist, Hans who I think did not fit the image of the band. Aside from the fact that Hans looked like a member of a boy band, he was also having a hard time hitting some of the notes and frequently catching his breath. Jayson had steadier vocals and brought a lot of energy while performing.

Watching the finals and seeing the other OPM bands perform some of the best songs of Rivermaya made me think how great this Pinoy band is. I’ve been a fan of Rivermaya since its Bamboo days. For me, their music speaks a lot about Filipino rock. The lyrics of their songs are not just about love or — as some people who hate rock would say “nonsensical,” but also speak of life, society, and values.

Honestly speaking, I loved Rivermaya better when Bamboo was still the lead vocalist. I loved the way Bamboo performed on stage and how he delivered the songs. In fact, most of the Rivermaya songs I love were the ones sung by Bamboo such as “Kisapmata,” “Awit ng Kabataan,” “Himala,” “214,” “Kung Ayaw Mo, Huwag Mo,” and many others. The Rivermaya sound during Bamboo’s time was more angst-ridden and distinctively rock than Rico Blanco’s time. When Bamboo left the band and Rico Blanco became the lead vocalist, the sound became different. In fact for me, it became pop-ish. Though I also liked Rico Blanco, in my opinion, Bamboo was still the best.

1. I’m not an early morning person. That means, I don’t get particularly chatty in the morning, especially when I still haven’t had my cup of coffee yet. I’m usually in my suplada mode before 11 AM.

2. Being an Aquarian, I get riled up when people tell me what to do, especially on situations that go against my personal beliefs. It’s either I don’t follow what they say or I do the opposite.

3. I’m all against judgmental people — people who judge you by your own set of beliefs or actions, those who cannot see or understand beyond what they “think” is “right” and reject other people’s opinions. We all have different views and opinions. And others should respect that. Therefore, those who impose their views on others are not very admirable to me.

4. Some people think that I’m sharp-tongued and a snub. I’m not. I’m actually nice in person, hehe. I must admit I can be tactless sometimes and talk with a high-pitched voice, which can be misconstrued as angry. But that’s just my voice. My mother even talks the same way. As for being a snub, I guess that’s partly true. There are times that I just stay quiet in a corner and not talk to anyone. I have my own private, little world sometimes and I guess some people see that as being snub.

5. I dislike being called ate. Though others may reason that calling me ate is a sign of respect, I disagree. Being called ate makes me feel old. I prefer to be called just by my nickname.